ECZEMA, DYSHIDROTIC

(Dyshidrosis; Pompholyx)

 Basic information

description

Dyshidrotic eczema is a skin condition that causes small blisters on the hands or feet. It is a type of dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) and affects all ages and women more than men.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Burning and itching in the hands and feet before the skin breaks out. Small blisters appear. They may be on the tips and sides of fingers, toes, palms, and soles of the feet.
• Blisters are nontransparent and deep; they are either even with the skin, or slightly raised. They don't break easily. Eventually, small blisters come together and form large blisters.
• Hands and feet may be wet with perspiration.
• Blisters may worsen after contact with soap, water, or irritating substances.

causes

Unknown. Excessive sweating is not a cause of this problem, but is often linked with it.

risk increases with

• Women are more often affected than men.
• Family history of dyshidrotic eczema.
• Allergic reactions may play a role.
• Periods of anxiety, stress, anger, and frustration seem to play a role in outbreaks.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific preventive measures are known.

expected outcomes

Outcome varies for different patients. Some recover completely with or without treatment. Others may continue to have symptoms even with treatment.

possible complications

• Continued peeling and cracking of the involved skin.
• Bacterial skin infection may occur.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider can diagnose the condition by an exam of the affected skin area. Medical tests are usually not needed, but may be done to confirm the diagnosis.
• Treatment involves drugs and self-care measures.
• Keep heat and moisture away from the affected areas whenever possible.
• Wear cotton socks and leather-soled shoes. Don't wear tennis shoes or other footwear made of man-made materials.
• Remove shoes and socks often to allow sweat to dry.
• Wear heavy-duty, cotton-lined vinyl gloves when in contact with water, soap, detergent, and other chemicals. Dry insides of gloves after use. Throw away gloves if they develop a hole.
• Wear gloves when you peel or squeeze acid fruits and vegetables.
• Wear leather or heavy-duty fabric gloves for housework or gardening.
• Avoid contact with irritating chemicals, such as paint; paint thinner; and polish for cars, floors, shoes, furniture, and metal.
• Use cool, moist compresses to help soothe the affected skin.
• Use lukewarm water and very little mild soap to shower or bathe.
• If emotional stress is a problem, try to identify the cause and find ways to control it. Counseling or learning stress management techniques may help.

medications

• Steroid creams or ointments are usually prescribed.
• Other topical drugs may be prescribed.
• Antihistamines may be prescribed to ease itching symptoms.
• Additional oral or topical drugs, ultraviolet light therapy, or other therapies may be prescribed.

activity

Avoid activities or environments that lead to stress or excessive sweating. Sweating does not cause the disorder, but may aggravate it.

diet

Usually no limits. In a few cases, a special diet such as low in nickel (avoiding cocoa, chocolate, nuts, whole grains, and other foods) may be recommended.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema.
• Signs of infection (swelling, redness, tenderness, or warmth) appear around blisters.
• Symptoms don't improve after 1 week, even with treatment.
• Symptoms recur after treatment.

Special Notes: